About Nicole C.

Using short scenes and monologues, I help students work on character development and with speaking their lines. I also help them to think about intention.

About Nicole

As a voice teacher and voice coach I strive to help the student get to where they want to be vocally. For me singing is something that brings me joy and I hope to be able to share that with you.

It took me a while to realize how much music and singing means to me. While studying something entirely different at the University of Maryland, I began studying voice and realized that it was something that I had a gift for. I fell in love with singing art songs, jazz and opera arias. And while studying at the University of Maryland, I had the opportunity to work as a voice teacher/ section leader with the women's section of a choir, numerous opportunities to work as a soloist and in a few jazz clubs. I was also involved in dance performances and acted as a dance tutor.

Later, when I was invited to sing in Denver I had the opportunity

to sing in Little Shop of Horrors and to sing with a women's choir. While studying at the University of Colorado Boulder I began to come into my own and started to let my large sound free. (Which for me was a process. Getting your voice where you want it and to where it is capable is work. But, it is fun work and you're always happy when you have these great moments where you get to where you were hoping you could and that your teacher said you would go at some point.) It was there, at CU Boulder that I got the opportunity to start singing in operas. While in Boulder I sang in The Magic Flute, Sarah McKinnon and as a soloist or recitalist.

Also, while there I worked as an actress in a theater company called the Interactive Theater Project for three years. I thought that by getting involved in that that I would be able to act more effectively while singing. It was fun just doing something where you're just working with the spoken word. I had a wonderful time with them and learned a lot about character work and what it takes to connect to the words in an effective way.

In the past few years, I have been a soloist and recitalist in the Washington,DC area and has sang opera in Pennsylvania with Center Stage Opera. Last year, I sang with Center Stage Opera in the role of Bertha. I had the opportunity to sing and to act at the Kennedy Center a few years ago. Also during that time, Isang in Aleko, the Die Zauberflöte as the Queen of the Night, Serena in Porgy and Bess, andsang in Ragtime and sang the role of the Wardrobe in Beauty and the Beast.

I am currently working as a soloist, a children's choir director, a chorus member and preparing for a recital and auditions in October. I look forward to what the rest of the year will bring.

*** Lesson Details ***If you're a beginner, I will help you to understand what you need to get through the vocal line with breath and intonation. We will begin by doing vocal exercises and learn a lot about breathing for singing. I want to help you to make more beautiful tones. I will also slowly begin teaching you how to read sheet music and to help you be a more effective listener when it comes to music. I can also help you to become a better communicator as a singer.

For acting, I will help you to learn how to develop characters and bring the writer's words to life. We will begin by seeing what sort of subjects or genres interest you and what you are doing with those words now, and how you can delve deeper into making the world of the characters something more flushed out.

*** Studio Equipment ***Inside my home studio I have: music, a music stand, chairs, WiFi, a computer, a laptop, a keyboard, a microphone, a metronome, a microphone, an amp/large speaker, and a sofa.

*** Specialties ***For voice I would say that my focus is on classical voice. I also sing jazz, gospel and musical theater. For acting I have done both improvisational and regular scripted plays.

I have not taught students with special needs, but as someone with a twin sister with special needs, I am open to teaching students with special needs.

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Reviews

Trenton E. April 28, 2017·Singing·In home

Nicole seems like a really swell lady thus far! I'm excited about the next lesson!! Time to get down to business!!

Kailah March 14, 2017·Singing·In studio

I had a great time at the singing lessons all you have to do is practice and practice and you will become better and it won't just happen over night

Maddi M. March 1, 2017·Acting·In home

She was excellent-goal-driven and realistic, and very sweet:)

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Nicole C.

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Nicole C.

Waldorf, MD 20603

(12)

starting at

$25
/ 30-min

About Nicole B.

About Nicole

Nicole B., Soprano/Musician is soprano soloist for the premiere band of the U.S. Army, "Pershing's Own". Nicole has her Masters of Music from CSU, Northridge while actively working as a professional vocalist for groups like the Verdi Chorus, St. Luke's Episcopal, St. Mark's Presbyterian and playing countless roles in opera's and musicals across the states and overseas. Nicole has had a lifetime involvement in voice, theatre, songwriting and music and is also currently lead singer and flutist for local D.C. Based rock band, Strum the Fox. Nicole has also worked in the pop industry with the four girl pop group "Women of Wealth" based out of Montecito, CA and featured on KEYT with guest star John Cleese. Coming from a family of artists and musicians, Nicole has always found the art within live performance to be the inspiration for her life

and her career. Melding artist expression with technical ability, Nicole's talents and passion make her a performer and teacher with the ability to bridge honest and natural acting skills with a powerful and studied classical voice! Throughout her life, Nicole has found herself pursuing classical voice, rock music and theatrical performance with a drive and passion that surprises even those who know her well. Her students have included parents and children alike as she has opened the door for many to pursue their life-long passions, she also is experienced in and loves teaching and working with special needs students.

*** Lesson Details ***All of my lessons are tailored to the interest of the student! Although I come from a strict technical background, I believe that the love of music and performance comes from experimenting and being creative! In a lesson with me, I suggest repertoire but if something is not working it is never a problem to redirect and find the right path for the student! With the wealth of my experience having been in over 45 musicals, opera's and other productions I can teach and guide the student through any performance and musical interest they may have and bridge the gap between genre's that so many are unable to do.

*** Studio Equipment ***Living Room, computer, keyboard, couch.

*** Travel Equipment ***I expect the students to provide a piano and or instrument of choice, and purchase method books and other repertoire.

*** Specialties ***I am expert in any type of vocal style, as I have an extensive background in musical theatre, pop as well as opera. I also have a great ability to teach Music Theory, something I love and something I do very well at. Like I said previously I have been in over 45 musical theatre/straight theatre and Opera productions, so I can teach acting as well as performance. I have also written over 50 songs for guitar and voice and performed with a local band in Santa Barbara, CA , so I have a lot of experience as a songwriter and guitar and can teach those as well too.

...

Reviews

Pavel / Rhonda H. October 8, 2014·Singing·In home

My daughter loves working with Nicole! I am so grateful we found her. Professional, reliable and extremely talented. Most of all, inspiring to my child.

Christine V. October 31, 2013·Guitar·

We are lucky to have found her!!!

Around a year ago, my daughter decided she wanted to learn to play the guitar! Thanks to Google, we ran into TakeLessons.
Nicole was recommended to us. After reading about her we were quite impressed!
Right after the first lesson and to my surprise, my (very shy) daughter had a great 1st experience with Nicole.
Nicole is a professional in her field AND also in handling kids and knowing how to help them overcome their shyness. She brings out the best in my daughter and also encourages her to sing even write her own notes!
I would highly recommend Nicole. She is truly talented and the greatest teacher!!!
Christine, Lia's mom!

Stella V. January 10, 2013··

Great for younger kids

Nicole,is amazing with my daughter. She is patient and really makes her feel at ease. I will absolutely recommend her.

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Nicole B.

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Nicole B.

Arlington, VA 22204

(3)

starting at

$45
/ 30-min

About Valyncia V.

About Valyncia

I believe everyone has the ability to sing … some better than others, of course, -- but regardless, I believe every voice can make a beautiful sound. I believe learning to sing requires team work: with the proper instruction and learning tools from me, the instructor, and with the dedication (practice, practice, practice) from you, the student, a well-rounded singer can emerge. If you can hear the proper note, I can help your vocal instrument play to its fullest abilities.

I began singing when I was five years old in church. I continued singing exclusively inspirational music until I was a teenager. At that time, in addition to the second soprano part I sang in a five-part harmony a Capella (without instrumental accompaniment) Gospel group, I also sang in a few bands (Rhythm and Blues, Jazz, and Rock). My undergraduate studies we

re completed at the American University, where I majored in Communications (B.A.), and minored in Music, voice being my instrument. During my undergraduate studies, I was recruited and performed as the lead female vocalist for a Rock band that a few fellow music students had formed. While in college, I was trained in classical voice, piano, music theory, musical theater performance, and vocal pedagogy (vocal training). My vocal pedagogy studies credentialed me to become a professional vocal instructor. I began teaching voice after I earned my degree, and have been teaching private voice lessons for over ten years.

Most of my present expertise in teaching voice grew from my vocal pedagogy studies, my teaching experience which has developed over time, my own personal vocal dedication, and my training and understanding of various genres of vocal performance. My present singing career is as an inspirational singer; my vocal students encompass various genres in which I have experience, including: Inspirational, Rhythm and Blues, Jazz, Rock, Classical, as well as various degrees of popular music.

*** Audition Preparation ***I have coached many of my students to prepare for auditions: auditions to be accepted into performing arts schools, parts in musicals and plays, joining a band or vocal ensemble, as well as auditions for televised singing shows, such as "The Voice," "Sunday's Best," "American Idol" and "The X Factor."

*** Lesson Details ***I teach students by using the tried and true techniques I have found to be successful, and allow the student to be my guide as to which direction to take with his or her vocal training. Whether the student is a novice, a professional, or somewhere in between, each student, after obtaining the basic singing knowledge and techniques, will have a vocal training schedule geared to his or her individual needs and development. Lessons are for the most part very casual in nature, and the student’s dedication (practice, practice, practice) will dictate whether or not the lessons become stricter. A few months into the vocal instruction, students will be given the opportunity to learn more about reading music and sight singing, if he or she so chooses, as well as vocal performance techniques for singing in front of an audience. Within one year, dedicated students may also have the opportunity to show off what they have learned, and perform in front of an audience at a recital with other vocal students. Please note that my preference is to work with teens age 13 through adults of any age. I believe that younger voices need more time to develop and stand to be damaged if too much stress is put on them too soon. However, exceptions for children under 13 may be made for gifted young singers.

*** Travel Equipment ***If needed, I provide a portable piano keyboard, microphone with amplifier, paper handouts of lessons, etc. The student needs to have paper to take notes and a writing instrument.

*** Specialties ***Most of my voice lesson experience has been with adults, and contemporary popular and inspirational music.

...

Reviews

mildred July 24, 2017·Singing·In studio

I really enjoy taking lesson with Valyncia, she is so
kind and very knowledgeable. I enjoy talking to her each visit. She is very patience with you and will work with you until you get it. I really enjoy spending my time with her on saturdays.

Valyncia V.

Valyncia V.

About James W.

If you have a desire to express yourself and have fun and are in Love with Acting and Film and Theatre you have come to the right place. All aspects are covered including how to land a job, an agent and avoid scams in Hollywood.

About James

I worked for Eddie Van Halen for five years in the 1990's in the Beverly Hills area of Los Angeles and was instrumental in providing help with development of the Peavey Wolfgang and Wolfgang Special Guitar by providing feedback on the prototypes Eddie was designing at the time. I learned a lot from Eddie and his brother Alex about music and the music industry. (All you have to do is pay attention! ) I have played in bands from Hollywood to Toronto and back both as a singer songwriter and guitarist. I bring the Musicians Institute way to the table and get things up and running quickly. I help students get it under their fingers fast and get it right the first time.

I believe in sharing the happiness of making music with anyone who loves music and the guitar in particular. I do my very best to get you playing the songs you love in Pop,

Rock, Jazz and Folk Music of your choice. Today's modern new guitars are easy to play and you will enjoy learning Guitar right away. That is how it should be. When you study there is a basic understanding of Guitar to be learned that allows an ease of use for anyone for years to come. This will help you reach your goal and improve each week. My students learn to practice in a way that feels comfortable and makes sense. This takes all the stress out of learning and gives everyone something to smile about and look forward to each week.

The good feeling of playing along with friends and taking a solo is within every students grasp. I will show you the way there. And with a solid and straightforward approach to the theory as it applies directly to the guitar you will feel confident and unafraid of any music endeavor. We'll cover harmony and fingerboard theory and give you a road map of the guitar neck that makes it a pleasure to play. You learn the basics and much more than you thought possible retaining 90 percent of what you learn!

Having been a student myself I was deeply involved in music since age 12 and played in bands and duos for over 15 years . I can help you to be a well rounded player and performer with a smile, a laugh and a joy for music whether your in a band or a budding solo artist.

*** Lesson Details ***Most students want to play the Guitar to play their favorite songs and I'm the same way. Music is something we carry with us in our hearts and minds. Students will learn what they wish to learn and work at a pace that is comfortable to them. Whether you are a student, “weekend warrior” or a parent whose child has expressed an interest in Guitar anyone can learn all there is to know about Harmony and Theory for the Guitar and how to play their favorite songs.

We cover theory in an easy and straightforward no nonsense way in the first half of each lesson and then apply it to the song you wish to learn. This creates an atmosphere where you understand and feel at home with the Guitar. You get an understanding right away and because it is immediately fun it allows you to feel comfortable at any level. Music is fun, and songs are the creative expression of what we feel. Combining theory and the freedom to play and sing songs allows us to express ourselves through music. After 6 months students will have a solid foundation in theory, and a road map of the guitar fretboard enabling them to advance to an intermediate level if they are ready to do so. Students will know enough that music as it relates to the Guitar, which is the world’s most popular instrument in contemporary music, is not a mystery but is a welcome friend. And they will be able to play songs by popular artists and advance at a pace that is satisfying and enjoyable.----------------------------

Student Comments:What Students Are Saying About ~ James Teaching Style

“I studied guitar privately with James in 2010. His style of teaching helped me to get past my blocks. He opened new doors for me. Thanks!”--Daniel S., guitar student, Los Angeles, CA 2010""James is a trustworthy man, great with answering back right away. Always ready to help with new members. I would definitely recommend him." ~ PJ Stover of PJ Stover Voices; Independent Film & Recording voice-over artist -----------------------------------What James spouse says about working on songwriting with him:

"James is my husband for over 10 years now. Over the years, I have seen James give guidance and counsel to many hopeful musicians of all ages, and inspire others about how music influences and benefits our lives. I would highly recommend James to anyone who wants to learn guitar, voice, music theory, and acting. James is a great talent, and study with him would benefit anyone with the sincere desire to grow as an artist. When we married, I had fallen in love with James’ conversational style, and his vast knowledge of music. When I heard him play guitar, I knew that I wanted to write songs with him, and we released our first album, in 2012 on iTunes."

*** Specialties ***Songs in the following styles: Pop, Rock and Modern Country Music. Also Composition Analysis while learning the song.

...

Reviews

Erin Virgili April 6, 2017·Improv Acting·Online

James was a wonderful instructor! Not only did he make my son feel confident about taking lessons he offered great advice and guidance about the acting industry. I would definitely recommend him to anyone seriously interested in improving their acting skills. My son is 12 years old.

Erin Virgili February 10, 2017·Improv Acting·Online

James made my son feel very comfortable for his first session!

JW February 6, 2017·Singing·In home

Good experience.

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James W.

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James W.

Online

(60)

starting at

$30
/ 30-min

About Jackson C.

I advocate a dynamic variety of approaches to your learning styles and trends. My interest is in the study of voice production; functionality, style/approach, health, and stage presence and as a result, my students are empowered with useful tools to reach their goals, confront and overcome common oppositions.

About Jackson

Welcome! It pleases me to welcome you as a valued student. My job as your instructor/coach is to ensure that my students get the best knowledge and skills. I teach the following lessons:* Voice lessons * English * Spanish * Public Speaking * Piano for beginners and revisiting...

I advocate a dynamic variety of approaches to your learning styles and trends. My interest is in the study of voice production; functionality, style/approach, health, and stage presence and as a result, my students are empowered with useful tools to reach their goals, confront and overcome common oppositions.

I am a PROCESS teacher. Everything in life is a process. Therefore, as a PROCESS teacher, I believe in beginning every first lesson with all of the information (I plan to teach) as a preview. Immediately (upon the next lesson) follo

wed by my teaching methods:

My teaching methods fall into these four categories: (D.A.D.E.)• Discovery- Gathering relevant and resourceful information of voice functionality.• Application- Putting technical skills to use and knowledge of when to use them.• Development- Process learning- Changes cause/effects and as a result, progress, production, and promise. “Trust the process.”• Execute- To bring forth, carry out, and perform!

Process teaching and learning is a specific teaching style that not only empowers the students to feel confident about their craft, it also gives the students useful skills that can be applied to REAL "time-life" scenarios. This reinforcement confirms that the students have indeed learned what they've hired me for and more.

By signing up for voice lessons with Jackson, you will become a V.I.P. member. What is a VIP member? V.I.P. members have the inside opportunities to learn “singer secrets!” (Vowels, Interpretations and Pept-talk).• Vowels- Two different approaches: Spoken and Sung• Interpretation- A stylistic approach that best explains or makes sense of. Your explanation for your creativeness. • P.E.P.T.-Talk (Details in your lesson)

Note:1. The most important thing for singers/musicians/language students is that they train their ears. Why? Because 90% of what you'll learn is by what you recall from hearing/listening. 2. ENVIRONMENT- is key to your learning. It's important for you to surround yourself around the very things that you're learning.

Once you sign up, you’ll receive a questionnaire. The information you provide is vital because it shapes and designs your learning curriculum.

Bio: From Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (Born October 15th, 1974) is an American singer, songwriter, arranger, and producer. Notable instruments are the piano and percussion. Jackson is one of Washington, DC’s prominent male vocalists. His voice is recognized as; beautiful light lyrical-pure tone, fine diction, long phrasing and an extended high range. He is also known for his work within the concert/recital repertoires around the Washington, DC Metropolitan areas and performances with the Symphonic Orchestra of Northern Virginia, Jeff Dokken, conductor.

Jackson credits himself as a Pop Inspirational singer. “Music to touch, move, and inspire.”- Jackson C.Jackson has experience working with youth and adults in churches, and privately. He has taught music and accompanied the production "KIDS" at the Kelsie Collie Children's Musical Experience. His music education studies hail from; University of the District of Columbia,- Washington, DC, Oberlin Conservatory under Richard Miller,- Oberlin, OH, and Shenandoah University Conservatory under Dr. Kathryn Green,- Winchester, VA with an emphasis in Voice Pedagogy (CCM) Contemporary Commercial Music. His professional music career began (Spring 2009) in the Washington, DC Metropolitan area. Jackson is fortunate to have had a career built on “word of mouth” via his fans and supporters. Often, he is called upon to sing for; weddings, funerals, private parties, churches, recitals etc. Words and phrases that best describe Jackson's vocal performances are: (G.R.I.P.) Graceful, Refreshing, Inspiring, and Powerful.

"Trust the process! Everything in life began and ends with a process."- B. Jackson Caesar

Languages: (English & Spanish)My interest in the Hispanic language, its apparatus, style/approach, and culture as it pertains to the ever growing population and bilingualism around the Americas. My desire is to engage the students in the discovery and appreciation of the lingual- romantic tongues.

Spanish:Countries visited; Mexico and Peru.I can guarantee that within a few months you'll feel confident and sure that you're conversation- ready to Speak Spanish. Therefore, if you're preparing a trip to a Spanish speaking country, you’ll find Peruvian Castellano pronunciation straightforward and as good as any other, with few of the dropped letters or peculiarities found in some other countries.

English (As a second language)I enjoy helping others learn the complexities of the English language. English is indeed a hard tongue to grasp however; it’s not difficult once you understand its secrets. (Phonetic learning)

Acting Coach: I advocate a dynamic variety of approaches to your learning styles and trends. My interest is in the study of voice production; functionality, style/approach, health, and stage presence and thus, my students are empowered with useful tools to reach their goals, confront and overcome common oppositions.

Public Speaking: Like that of the other subjects, my primary focus is to give you fundamental skills of interpretation. There are seven interpretation techniques that are used to empower and influence not only the speaker, but even your audience. The seven interpretative techniques can be applied to these six types of speeches: Narrative, Descriptive, Expository, Persuasive, Informative, and Social groups. You will also learn stage presence, and effective leadership skills. By the end of this course, you’ll not only have the confidence, you’ll have the command and compassion to lead.

...

Reviews

Elyse July 23, 2017·Singing·In home

I loved Jackson so much. He helped me understand completely new concepts and helped me learn things that will help me in my singing career. He takes a completely original approach to teaching and singing theory, and it really improves how you perform. I would definitely recommend him to someone who is comfortable with their singing voice, but wants to take it to the next level. But I'm sure he is great with everyone!

Lauren M. July 8, 2017·Classical Piano·In studio

Jackson is an awesome musician. You can tell he loves what he does and is very patient with my chatty 7 year old. Signing up for more lessons :)

Guiliane July 7, 2017·Singing·In home

Awesome!

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Jackson C.

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Jackson C.

Takoma Park, MD 20912

(40)

starting at

$45
/ 45-min

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About Detrece L.

About Detrece

DeTrece "Dee" Lavender is a native of Miami, Florida. When her family moved to Sarasota, she was afforded the opportunity to study music and the performing arts as a student of the Westcoast School/Henry L. Porter School of Music. It was then that Dee began to understand the power of the creative arts as an effective form of emotional expression and release. By middle school, DeTrece began fine tuning her natural talents by studying classical voice which earned her several starring roles in the Sarasota Youth Opera, The Aslo Theater and the Players Theater. She is also a proud former member of the Westcoast Black Theater Troop in Sarasota, FL. Under the caring leadership of these opportunities, she was able to combine musical and life experiences in order to offer a more well rounded educational and musical experience for her students.

She was awarded a scholarship to attend Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA, where she received a dual Bachelor of Music degree in Music Therapy and Vocal Performance (Class of 2003). It was through her service as a music therapist, Millieu (residential) counselor and music teacher in the Boston City Public Schools/Greater Boston Metropolitan Area, that she began to feel the call toward a greater understanding of the gravity and role of the socio-emotional needs of students (and their families/villages) in urban settings. This call brought her to Baltimore, MD where she enrolled in the Pastoral Counseling Masters of Science program at Loyola University. In addition to her studies, she currently teaches Elementary and Middle School choir/ Musicianship teacher in the Baltimore City Public Schools through the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra's OrchKids Program. She also serves as Minister Of Music and Arts at two local churches.

...

Reviews

Shaunise G. March 21, 2016·Singing·In home

Detrece was patient very much into her work and very knowledgeable about singing i will continue to finish my lesson with and recommend her HIGHLY.
Lavelle Garcia

Nefertiri S. February 26, 2016·Microsoft Office·In home

She is such a very pleasant person to work with, patient ,kind ,very knowledgeable of the computer,she showed me a lot in one day.I am looking forward to the next class .Thank you

Beverly B. February 3, 2016·Gospel Singing·In home

Detrece was amazing. She is extremely talented and very good at instructing. Her pleasant personality make your nervousness disappear in minutes. I recommend her to anyone, especially beginners who lack confidence.

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Detrece L.

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Detrece L.

Baltimore, MD 21217

(7)

starting at

$45
/ 45-min

About Amelia N.

I have been teaching acting for twelve years. My goal is for you to create honest work. I will gear you to the choices that are right for the piece. I am very honest in my approach but I work in a positive manner. I will always tell you what is working and what still needs to be worked upon. As a teacher, I may ask you to reflect on your own life experiences, imagine scenarios, or improvise. I use the Stanislavsky method of acting which asks 'What does your character want?'

About Amelia

Amelia graduated from Fordham University, Lincoln Center in New York City with a B.A. in Performance, and a Masters in Acting from the American Repertory Theatre at Harvard University.

She has worked on Broadway, Regional Theatre, and Film. Some rules include:Puck in a Midsummer Night's Dream, Hero in Much Ado About Nothing and Little Red in Into the Woods, along with many others. She is also dancer and has worked professionally with the Nevada Festival Ballet. She has lived in New York, London and Moscow.

She has been teaching for twelve years. She has worked with many New York and LA actors and has developed many drama curriculums for the D.C. metro area and abroad.

...

Reviews

Theodore L. February 2, 2017·Acting·In studio

Amelia was great. She provided excellent instruction, adapted to my style of learning and gave me a targeted plan to help me improve my acting skills throughout the course of my lessons. As a beginner, I couldn't have asked for a better teacher for my introduction to the world of acting.

Tim November 20, 2016·Acting·In studio

Very lovely person, great teacher, good start. Onward! See you in Hollywood! :)

Svetlana August 12, 2016·Acting·In studio

Great, supportive teacher. The sessions are useful and motivating to become better in acting.

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Amelia N.

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Amelia N.

Arlington, VA 22205

(18)

starting at

$40
/ 30-min

About Ollie L. J.

Over 20 years experience acting, writing, directing, and producing films and theatrical stage plays. My mission is to inspire and develop your unique gift. Fun, interactive, and applicable teaching techniques that will motivate the best you!

About Ollie L.

Professor of Communication & Theater with incredible experiences performing, producing, directing, and writing stage plays performed at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Publick Playhouse, THEARC Theater, National Children's Museum and over 60 different stages annually. She is the President/Owner and Founder of Timeless Visual Works - the inspirational film, theater, and publishing company. She leads with Christian faith-based principles and extensive knowledge as well as experience training aspiring and professional performers.

...

Reviews

Linda September 9, 2016·Acting·In studio

It was my daughter's first contact with professional acting.
She has been talking about being an actress for quite a while now, so we decided to let her take a few lessons to see if she likes it.
Ollie was really comprehensive of our needs and made us see the big picture of that world... just what we needed, to start walking into that direction on the right path.
My daughter had a wonderful time with Ollie.

Kristyl N. March 3, 2016·Acting·In studio

I booked 4 acting sessions with Ms. Ollie for my daughter. Ms. Ollie did a phenomenal job starting from scratch, coaching my daughter for her up coming audition. My daughter had no acting experience, she was shy, and soft spoken but in just 4 short days, Ms. Ollie turned her into a confident, outspoken young actress. My daughter nailed her audition thanks to Ollie!! I will highly recommend her as your acting coach.

Leana T. January 13, 2016·Film and TV Acting·Online

Great person to work with! Cheerful. Listens to what you have to say. Ready to help you improve.

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Ollie L. J.

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Ollie L. J.

Silver Spring, MD 20910

(9)

starting at

$60
/ 30-min

About Robert E.

I have taught and directed for 30 years in NY and DC. From lesson 1, students engage with a dynamic approach to acting through Meisner-based improv. During the 1st 12 weeks, we go from basic truthful acting to dynamic scene work, followed by 12 weeks of in-depth scene study, then extensive character training and in-depth film and audition technique. My students are successful in film, theater, commercials and TV in DC, NY and LA.

About Robert

I have taught acting for over 30 years based in the Meisner Technique, and I write and direct my own plays and films. I have years of experience as an actor, jazz saxophone player, singer and poet, as well as a philosophy degree, which I bring to my understanding of acting. I use this rich background to focus on the creativity, intelligence and improvisational abilities of each student in their acting process. I know what it takes to walk into any acting situation ready to play the role. My goal is to create actors who enjoy their work and can act skillfully in film, theater, tv and auditions. I emphasize character work in the program, an important and often neglected part of the acting process. I have cast my advanced students in my original projects in the DC area, and most recently directed my original play, "The Big A: Scenes fro

m a Vanishing Landscape" for the 2014 DC Fringe Festival. I have directed two films: "Adams Morgan: The Movie," which premiered at the Avalon Theater in 2010 and was selected and shown as part of the East of the River Festival in DC; and a short film from my original screenplay titled "Crazy" which is currently in the editing phase. My student Mack Leamon is currently appearing in the Arena Stage production of "Raisin in the Sun" and I am very proud of his accomplishment!

...

Reviews

Drake August 16, 2017·Acting·In studio

Very attentive and intuitive teacher

Steve P. April 22, 2017·Acting·In home

Very well spoken, projected competence and was great with the 64 yer old first time acting student.

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Robert E.

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Robert E.

Washington, DC 20008

(2)

starting at

$40
/ 30-min

About Sally H.

I will be able to prep students in different techniques, both in-out and out-in methods, so the actor gains a template that s/he can procure in high-intensity audition scenarios. I mix and match techniques to find something that will work consistently for each student

About Sally

I've traveled the world in the pursuit of performance, gaining my undergraduate degree (Music) in Sydney, and my master's degree (Musical Theatre) in Cardiff. It has been an extremely exciting adventure, and I've been through the days of choosing new repertoire, learning different vocal techniques and learning how to apply that on stage and in audition rooms. Since graduating, I have continued my singing through concerts, cruises and shows, and I've performed in world-renowned venues such as The Wolf Trap Center for Performing Arts (DC) and The Seymour Center (Sydney). With all that being said, I will work to create focus in my students, to really concentrate on their muscles rather than the sound they are producing, and we can then make wholesome, measurable progress that is dependent on moving the muscles to where you want to go, rather

than listening to how you sound and adjusting accordingly.

The techniques I've studied are the Estill Method and the Swedish-Italian Method.

...

Reviews

Tim August 1, 2017·Vocal Training·Online

Sal is an excellent teacher. She knows a huge amount about singing, and can communicate her lessons in an easy to understand and very effective way. I would highly recommend!

Marissa May 23, 2017·Acting·In studio

Sally is a very skilled actress with many techniques that were appropriate for my 8 year old daughter. My daughter learned so many wonderful new ways to express her inner characters and this was just the first class. Sally is a fun and professional teacher. We look forward to learning a lot more from her during our sessions.

Sally H.

Sally H.

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Acting Lesson Reviews from Students

Students are raving about their Acting instructors on TakeLessons.
Check out some of these recent reviews.

Review by Courtney

"Upon first meeting Tokia we all loved her! She has a remarkable personality and we are excited to continue working with her and to see what she can teach

our daughter."

...

Washington, DC teacher:
Tokia C.

Review by Marissa

"Sally is a very skilled actress with many techniques that were appropriate for my 8 year old daughter. My daughter learned so many wonderful new ways to e

xpress her inner characters and this was just the first class. Sally is a fun and professional teacher. We look forward to learning a lot more from her during our sessions."

...

Washington, DC teacher:
Sally H.

Review by Seble

"Jackson was very open and clear about what he wanted to cover. He makes you at ease the whole session and he is very relatable. I am happy he is near me a

nd I can't wait for the next class."

...

Washington, DC teacher:
Jackson C.

Review by Ariannah

"We have only had our first acting lesson and my daughter is 3. I can definitely say from the first interaction I had with Tokia by e-mail up to the end o

f the first lesson, I couldn't ask for anything more! My daughter has no previous experience in acting and is very shy. Tokia was able to capture moments of engagement with my daughter and got her to act out a few scenes!! I love Tokia so far and look forward to continue to work with her!!!"

...

Washington, DC teacher:
Tokia C.

Review by Sandra

"Great lesson today, I feel like I know how to read a script now!"

Washington, DC teacher:
Tokia C.

Review by Linda

"It was my daughter's first contact with professional acting.She has been talking about being an actress for quite a while now, so we decided to let her

take a few lessons to see if she likes it.Ollie was really comprehensive of our needs and made us see the big picture of that world... just what we needed, to start walking into that direction on the right path.My daughter had a wonderful time with Ollie."

...

Washington, DC teacher:
Ollie L. J.

Review by Tess

"Amelia was one of my first acting coaches and by far the best I have ever and will ever work with. Amelia encourages her students to look beyond the pages

of the script and find the meaning in the words. She taught me to explore the characters I played and challenged me each time, helping me improve with each character. Amelia helped me realize my love for acting and allowed me to explore what it takes to truly connect with a character. While Amelia clearly loves the craft of acting, more importantly she loves to see her students improve and grow. Even though five years have passed since Amelia has been my teacher, I still reference the tools she taught me with each of my roles."

...

Washington, DC teacher:
Amelia N.

Review by Sandra

"wow, I'm so excited about this class, I'm loving it!"

Washington, DC teacher:
Tokia C.

Review by Stefan

"Amelia is one of the best acting coaches that I've had the privilege to work with. She is patient, caring, and understands that every student learns diff

erently. Amelia will work with you to help you bring the most to any performance piece you work on. She will teach you to analyze the script to understand why your character does what he does or says what he says. She will teach you how to connect to the material to bring your performance to life. Amelia helped me grow as an actor and inspired me to begin writing my own material for others to enjoy. If you have a passion for the performing arts and want to make yourself better for it, then look no further than Amelia."

...

Washington, DC teacher:
Amelia N.

And they're not alone!

Our teachers have taught

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1
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2
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lessons and counting!

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